Celebrating life at Barchester

Residents were delighted to receive cuddles from a very fluffy guinea pig recently. The small visitor made a big impact, helping bring joy, calm moments and gentle interaction to their day.  

Research suggests animal visits can help lower blood pressure,  encourage gentle movement and reduce stress.  We are already looking forward to the next visit!

My name is Fatma(Fatos) Suleymanoglu and I am a UK-Surrey based Special Education Teacher, experienced Activity Coordinator and Reiki Master.

My professional journey began during my university years, where I combined my studies with hands-on work in activity organisation. Since 2013, I have been designing and delivering structured activity and educational programmes tailored to different age groups, with a strong focus on inclusion and individual needs.

As a Special Education Teacher, I am committed to supporting diverse learning abilities and creating safe, nurturing environments where every individual feels understood, respected and empowered. My approach is person-centred, compassionate and structured, ensuring meaningful engagement and emotional wellbeing.

In my role as an Activity Coordinator, I design creative and purposeful programmes that encourage confidence, social interaction and personal development. I believe well-planned activities can significantly enhance quality of life and emotional balance.

Alongside my professional work, I lead and support voluntary community projects focused on environmental awareness and mother–child initiatives. These experiences reflect my dedication to community connection and holistic wellbeing.

I also practise Reiki, promoting relaxation and emotional harmony. I have a strong passion for continuous learning and personal development, consistently seeking ways to grow both professionally and personally.

I am committed to delivering my work with care, integrity, professionalism and empathy.

At Ritson Lodge we support and encourage our residents to continue doing the things they love whilst also making new friends. Activities that help or residents boost cognitive and motor skills help provide holistic benefits that enhance the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of residents.

Getting ready for Spring our Residents asked the Activities Team to plan a flower arranging session. The arrangements were then place around the home to celebrate an early spring.

By taking regular feedback and requests from our residents we can enhance our life enrichment program to suit the interests of the residents.

The garden is bursting into life, the bulbs have broken through, the flowers are blooming, we have seen lots more birds in our delightful woodland garden and residents have been getting creative with making and painting some stunning wind chimes.

Our residents regularly enjoy a baking session with Head Chef Craig. 

The flour comes out, the bowls are ready and the fingers work their magic.

Baking club is a great opportunity to revisit pleasurable activities, to share in the joy, to reminisce and of course to then delight in all the tasty treats that result!

We had a great afternoon yesterday as we celebrated the Mexican festival Día de la Bandera "Flag Day".

Día de la Bandera "Flag Day" is a national holiday in Mexico dedicated to the flag of Mexico and the residents enjoyed decorating the lounge with Mexican Flags whilst the staff dressed up in traditional Mexican outfits.

Our resident Mike took great pleasure in showing pictures of himself back in the late 1950's wearing a Mexican Sombrero and telling us stories of his global travels from his military days.

It was another memorable afternoon here at Bayleaf filled with fun and laughter.